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ICN destination photo
HEL destination photo

ICNHEL

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers the most dramatic views of the world's deepest lake, the rugged Siberian wilderness, and the stunning transition into the Finnish Lake District.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
💎

Lake Baikal

The 'Pearl of Siberia' is best seen from the right; its massive, banana-shaped blue surface is unmistakable.

🌲

Siberian Taiga

Witness the world's largest coniferous forest, a seemingly endless green carpet stretching to the horizon.

💧

Yenisei River

One of the longest river systems in the world, appearing as a massive silver ribbon winding through the tundra.

🏔️

Ural Mountains

See the ancient, weathered peaks that mark the traditional boundary between Asia and Europe.

🌌

Northern Lights

On winter night flights, this north-facing side provides the best opportunity to spot the Aurora Borealis.

🇫🇮

Finnish Lakeland

A spectacular view of Saimaa and surrounding lakes as the aircraft enters Finnish territory.

The right side is north-facing on this westbound route, which is crucial for seeing the Northern Lights during winter months. If the flight uses the 'Polar Route,' you will see the vast Arctic ice pack. Try to book a seat away from the wing for an unobstructed view of Lake Baikal, which usually appears 4-5 hours into the flight. Be aware that window frost can occur due to the extreme outside temperatures over the Arctic.

Left Side Highlights
7.9
🏜️

Gobi Desert

View the vast, arid expanses and unique dune formations of the Mongolian-Chinese border region.

🏔️

Altai Mountains

Observe the snow-capped peaks and glaciers where Russia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan meet.

🌊

Lake Ladoga

Pass over Europe's largest lake just before the final descent into Finnish airspace.

🏙️

Saint Petersburg

On clear days, see the sprawling layout of Russia's cultural capital near the Gulf of Finland.

🏝️

Helsinki Archipelago

Enjoy the intricate maze of thousands of small islands as you approach Vantaa from the south.

For flights departing ICN in the evening, the left side faces south/west, providing a long, lingering sunset during the trans-continental journey. It is also the preferred side for views of the Baltic coastline during the final approach. If the flight takes a southern detour (due to airspace restrictions), this side offers views of the Caucasus Mountains.

Top Activities in Helsinki
Route Information

Distance: 7,032 km (4,369 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 16 min

Departure: ICN (37.46910095214844, 126.45099639892578)

Arrival: HEL (60.317199707031, 24.963300704956)

Route Type: International

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